About the RVT

The RVT is a rocket-powered reusable test vehicle developed by JAXA, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency.

While not itself designed for space flight, it is being used as a low-cost testbed for technologies that could be used on future SSTO (Single Stage to Orbit) spacecraft. It is similar in concept to the cancelled Delta Clipper flown by the USA.

The RVT stands about 3.6 metres high and has a dry weight of 500 kilograms. Lifting power is provided by a liquid oxygen/liquid hydrogen rocket motor, and nitrogen thrusters allow attitude control. It takes off and lands vertically, and is capable of fully automated flight. The lessons learned from the RVT program are an important step toward the design of a true reusable spacecraft.

Related links

Information on the RVT from other sites:

RVT test flight - From JAXA, a short movie of a flight made in 2001 (Quicktime format, file size 600 Kb).